Why is my Subaru Crosstrek not starting?

Most Crosstrek starting problems boil down to a weak or dead battery, but other issues with the ignition, immobilizer, starter, or fuel system can also prevent the engine from turning over or starting.

When you press the start button or turn the key, several systems must cooperate: the 12-volt electrical system, the starter, the immobilizer/security system, fuel delivery, and engine sensors. Understanding these interactions helps you diagnose safely and efficiently.

Common quick checks

Begin with these basic checks to rule out easy causes before deeper diagnosis.

• Test the battery voltage with a multimeter; a healthy battery should show about 12.6 volts or more with the engine off.


• Inspect battery terminals and cables for corrosion, looseness, or damage; clean and tighten as needed.


• Try a jump-start with a known-good battery if the Crosstrek won't crank or feels weak.


• Look for warning lights on the dash (check engine, security/immobilizer, battery) which can point to the faulty system.


• Ensure the transmission is fully in Park (automatic) or Neutral; attempting to start in a wrong gear can prevent cranking.


• Check relevant fuses and relays (main relay, fuel pump, starter) in the fuse box; replace any blown fuses.


• Listen for a faint click from the starter relay or a rapid ticking sound when turning the key; this can indicate a weak battery or poor connections.


• When you switch to the ON position, you should hear the fuel pump priming in most Crosstrek models; absence of priming can indicate fuel or relay issues.

These quick checks cover the most frequent no-start causes. If none apply or the problem persists, proceed to deeper diagnostic steps or seek professional help.

Root causes by system

Broken down by major subsystems, these are the typical culprits when a Crosstrek won't start.

Battery and charging system

A weak or dying 12-volt battery, a failing alternator, or corroded/loose battery cables can prevent starting or cause intermittent failures. If the battery voltage drops significantly when attempting to start, replace or recharge the battery and inspect cables for corrosion or damage. After a jump, have the charging system tested to ensure it’s restoring voltage properly.

Electrical connections and fuses

Loose grounds, corroded terminals, or blown fuses/relays can disrupt power to the starter or engine control module. Inspect key grounds (engine block ground strap), clean terminals, and replace blown fuses or faulty relays as needed.

Immobilizer and key fob

Subaru’s immobilizer system can prevent starting if the key is not recognized. A dead key fob battery or a failed transponder can trigger security lights or prevent engine cranking. Try a spare key, replace the key fob battery, or consult a dealer if the immobilizer remains active.

Starter motor and ignition system

No or weak cranking, or a single-click when turning the key, can point to the starter motor or its relay. In some cases, the ignition switch or wiring to the starter can also fail. A trained technician can test starter current draw and relay operation.

Fuel delivery and ignition

If ignition systems produce spark but fuel isn’t delivered or cylinders aren’t getting fuel pressure, the engine won’t start. Symptoms include no audible fuel pump prime, a rough idle after cranking, or a CEL indicating fuel or sensor faults. A professional can perform a fuel-pressure test and inspect injectors, pump, and pressure regulator.

Engine sensors and control modules

Malfunctioning crankshaft or camshaft position sensors, or issues with the engine control unit, can prevent the engine from starting or cause long crank times. Diagnostic codes from an OBD-II scan are often required to identify the faulty sensor.

Safety interlocks and transmission position

The Crosstrek will not start if the transmission is not in Park or Neutral, or if the brake switch or clutch switch fails. CVT-related interlocks and parking brake conditions can also prevent starting in some scenarios.

Mechanical issues (rare)

Seized engines, timing belt/chain failures, or other catastrophic mechanical problems can prevent starting. These are uncommon but require professional assessment and may involve significant repair costs.

What to do next

Follow these steps in order to diagnose safely and decide whether you can fix it yourself or need professional help.

1. Verify safety: ensure the vehicle is on level ground, in Park/Neutral, with the parking brake engaged and the keys present.


2. Check the battery voltage with a multimeter and inspect terminals for corrosion or loose connections; clean or tighten as needed.


3. Attempt a jump-start with a known-good battery if you suspect a weak battery; observe whether the engine cranks normally.


4. Inspect dash warning lights and listen for unusual sounds (clicks, grinding) to guide you toward electrical or mechanical causes.


5. Inspect fuses and relays related to starting, ignition, and fuel system; replace any that are blown or faulty.


6. If the engine cranks but does not start, obtain a diagnostic code using an OBD-II scanner to identify potential sensor or fuel-system faults; consider checking for stored codes even if the check engine light is off.


7. Test fuel delivery by listening for the fuel pump priming when turning the key to ON (not just START); a lack of pump sound suggests fuel-pump or relay issues.


8. If the Crosstrek still won’t start after these steps, contact roadside assistance or a Subaru-certified mechanic for a thorough diagnostic with factory-level tools.

These steps help to rule out the most common causes and decide whether professional service is warranted.

Summary

Across model years, the most frequent starting problem for the Crosstrek is a weak battery or poor electrical connections. If a jump or cleaning connections doesn’t restore starting, focus shifts to the starter, immobilizer, fuel delivery, and relevant sensors. Modern Crosstreks rely on integrated computer controls and security features, so a precise diagnostic with OBD-II scanning is often essential. When in doubt, especially if warning lights appear, seek help from a qualified technician to avoid further damage.

What happens if your car won't start but has power?

If your car has power but won't start, the problem is likely a bad starter motor, an issue with the fuel system, or a faulty ignition switch. You may hear a single click (which can point to a bad starter) or a whirring sound (which can mean a bad starter solenoid). Other less common causes include blown fuses, a security system issue, or a bad alternator. 
This video explains the common issues why a car won't start but has power: 55sFixITYouTube · Jan 23, 2025
Common causes

• Starter motor: If you hear a loud click when you turn the key, the starter motor may be failing. It could be getting power, but it isn't able to turn the engine over. 
• Fuel system: A bad fuel pump or clogged fuel filter can prevent the engine from getting the necessary fuel to start. 
• Ignition switch: A faulty ignition switch may not be sending the "start" signal to the rest of the car, even if the lights and radio work. 
• Blown fuse: A blown fuse can cause the car to have no power at all or only partial power, depending on which fuse is blown. 
• Security system: Some anti-theft systems can prevent the car from starting as a security measure. 
• Alternator: If your battery is getting low, the alternator may be failing and not charging the battery correctly. 

What to do

1. Check the basics: Make sure the gear shift is firmly in Park or Neutral. Also, check that the battery terminals are clean and tight. 
2. Listen for sounds: Turn the key to the start position and listen for any sounds. A single loud click points to the starter, a whirring sound suggests a bad starter solenoid. 
3. Don't keep cranking: Repeatedly cranking the engine can drain the battery further. 
4. If you suspect a specific issue, such as a blown fuse: Use a multimeter to check the fuses in the fuse box and replace any that are blown. 
5. If you're still unsure: It's best to have the car diagnosed by a professional to avoid any further damage. 

Why is my Subaru turning on but not starting?

Electrical system issues, such as blown fuses, corroded battery terminals, or damaged wiring, can also prevent a Subaru car from starting. It's essential to inspect the electrical system components and connections for signs of damage or corrosion and address any issues promptly.

Why is my Subaru Crosstrek not starting just clicks?

A clicking noise when a Subaru Crosstrek won't start is usually due to a weak or dead battery, a faulty starter motor, or loose/corroded battery connections. You should first check the battery terminals for corrosion or a loose fit and consider a jump-start if the battery is the issue. If the problem continues after checking the battery, the starter motor or relay is likely the next culprit. 
Potential causes and solutions

• Dead or weak battery: This is the most common cause. The clicking sound comes from the starter solenoid trying to engage but not having enough power to crank the engine. 
  • Solution: Try a jump-start. If the car starts, a new battery may be needed. If the car still won't start after a jump-start, the issue is likely elsewhere. 
• Loose or corroded battery terminals: Even if the battery has a full charge, a poor connection can prevent enough power from reaching the starter. 
  • Solution: Inspect the battery terminals. Clean off any corrosion and ensure the cables are securely tightened. 
• Faulty starter motor or relay: The starter motor or its relay can fail, causing a clicking sound when the solenoid tries to engage but the motor doesn't turn. A single click might indicate a relay issue, while rapid clicking is more likely a low battery. 
  • Solution: After checking the battery, inspect the starter and relay. Professional diagnosis may be needed to confirm if the starter or relay is faulty and needs replacement. 
• Immobilizer system fault: A rapid clicking noise combined with a blinking red lock icon on the dash can indicate a problem with the vehicle's immobilizer system. 
  • Solution: Try disconnecting the battery for a few minutes to reset the system. If this doesn't work, consult a professional to diagnose the immobilizer system or key fob. 

This video demonstrates how to start a Subaru with a dead key fob battery: 32sTyson The Subaru Specialist YouTube · Nov 29, 2019
What to do next

1. Check the battery connections: Make sure the battery terminals are clean and tight. 
2. Try a jump-start: This is the quickest way to rule out a dead battery. 
3. Listen to the clicking: A single, loud click often points to the starter itself, while rapid clicking is a classic sign of a low battery. 
4. Get a professional diagnosis: If a jump-start doesn't work or the problem continues, take the vehicle to a qualified mechanic to have the starter motor, relay, and electrical system properly tested. 

Why is my Subaru Crosstrek engine not starting?

When a 2020 Crosstrek has power but won't start, check the starter relay and ignition switch first. Ensure the battery terminals are clean and tight. Test the starter motor by listening for clicking sounds when turning the key. Inspect fuses related to the starting circuit in the fuse box.